The Marriott Panama Hotel, located in Albrook, was the scene of a significant meeting dedicated to promoting inclusion and accessibility in Panama. Under the title "Inclusion and Equalization of Opportunities: Practical Strategies to Comply with Inclusive Development Policies in the Labor, Social and Cultural Field", the workshop was organized by Let's Meet Eventos Sostenibles Panama in collaboration with important entities such as the Department of Equalization of the Ministry of Culture, the National Disability Secretariat (SENADIS), the Panamanian Institute of Special Habilitation (IPHE) and the Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP). The event took place in person on Thursday, February 8, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
The workshop included the participation of distinguished panelists, including Erick A. Rodríguez, Rehabilitation advisor at EVE-IPHE; Jorge Villalba, director of the Department of Equalization of Opportunities of SENADIS; Jorge Morales, director of the Department of Equalization of Opportunities of the Ministry of Culture of Panama (Mi Cultura) and Licda. Daysi Trujillo, head of Technical Cooperation of the Tourism Authority of Panama. The moderation was carried out by Dr. Mercedes Villavicencio, academic director, and Master Roberto Baca, President of Sustainable Tourism Solutions STS CR SA.
The content of the workshop was structured into several sessions, starting with an introduction and raising awareness about the importance of the social inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace, social and cultural spheres. The challenges and barriers faced by these people were addressed, as well as the legal framework and inclusion policies that support equalization of opportunities.
Successful social inclusion programs and projects, examples of good practices in companies and organizations, and advice for implementing similar programs in various industries were presented. Training strategies for staff on inclusion issues, the development of internal policies that foster an inclusive environment, and tools for awareness-raising and ongoing training were also discussed.
The participants, coming from various sectors such as tourism, restaurants, food, services, government, event organizers and associations, had the opportunity to listen to successful experiences in the inclusion of people with disabilities, analyze real cases and participate in interactive workshops to develop strategies inclusion practices. Customized action plans were created and problem-solving exercises related to inclusion were carried out.
For her part, Patricia Puentes, General Director and Founder of Let's Meet and Meetings®Panama, emphasized: "This activity is of great importance as it is aligned with our strategy of promoting good practices, training, generating awareness and sensitizing the industry. meetings and tourism, as well as its entire value chain. We seek to create and design experiences and services aimed at people with disabilities in Panama."
The closing of the workshop included a summary of the key points and learnings, as well as the participants' commitment to implement changes in their respective environments. Additional resources and support networks were offered to continue the work of inclusion, thus reinforcing Let's Meet Eventos Sostenibles Panamá's commitment to accessibility and inclusion in Panamanian society.
The event – workshop was sponsored by the Marriott Panama Hotel and FLUGE Central America, demonstrating the support of various entities to promote inclusive practices in the country.